Pumpkin Howden Organic Seeds

Cucurbita pepo

Item #3113

110 days. When you see the perfect carving pumpkin for sale, it's probably Howden, developed in the 1970s by John Howden in Massachusettes as the perfect decorative pumpkin. John's son, Bruce, carries on the family tradition so you can grow you own! These bright orange pumpkins have strong handles, thick walls, and defined ribs that add to its characteristic Halloween look. Each plant produces 1?2, 18?22 pound pumpkins on long vines.

This packet
sows up to 6 mounds.

Seedling Image

Days to Emerge:7-14 days

Seed Depth:1"

Seed Spacing:
2-3 seeds per mound

Mound Spacing:
4'-6'

Thinning:
When seedling has several leaves thin to 1-2 per mound

When to sow outside: RECOMMENDED. 2 to 4 weeks after average last frost, and when soil temperature is 70°?90°F.

When to start inside: Not recommended except in very short growing seasons, 2 to 4 weeks before average last frost. Sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground. Transplant after average last frost, when weather is warm and settled.

Harvesting: Harvest pumpkins before the first fall frost, and when foliage has begun to dry out. Cut stem with a knife, leaving 3"-4" of stem on the pumpkin. Do not hold the pumpkin by the stem; if stem attachment gets broken, or any part of the pumpkin bruises, the pumpkin may rot. Brush off any dirt or leaves. Ideally, cure at 80°-85°F and 80?85% humidity or a warm, sunny spot with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks before eating or storage. Do not allow harvested fruit to get wet.